The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has directed local authorities across the country to enforce the necessary laws and by-laws to ban the sale of ready-to-eat foodstuff on the streets. This move comes in an effort to curb the outbreak of cholera, which has been reported in some districts, including Vubwi in Eastern Province and Mwansabombwe in Luapula Province since January 26th, 2023.
Permanent Secretary for Administration, Maambo Hamaundu, has called for heightened inspection of foodstuff sold in all restaurants, markets, and open areas to ensure compliance with public health guidelines. In a statement, Mr Hamaundu emphasized the importance of these measures in preventing the spread of cholera: “We need to take preventive measures to contain the outbreak of cholera in our communities. We urge all local authorities to enforce the necessary laws and by-laws to ban the sale of ready-to-eat foodstuff on the streets and to heighten inspection of foodstuff sold in all restaurants, markets, and open areas.”
The Ministry has appealed to every individual to keep their surroundings clean and observe basic hygiene practices such as regular washing of hands with soap and clean water after using the toilet, boiling or chlorinating water for drinking, and disposing of waste properly. Mr Hamaundu stressed the importance of individual responsibility in preventing the spread of cholera: “We need every individual to take responsibility for their own health and the health of their community. By observing basic hygiene practices and following the regulations put in place by local authorities, we can prevent the spread of cholera and ensure that our communities remain safe and healthy.”
In addition to the ban on street food sales, local authorities have been urged to communicate effectively with shop owners, bar operators, marketeers, bus drivers, street vendors, and community members who will be expected to comply with all preventive measures. This includes compliance with all regulations aimed at curbing the spread of cholera. Mr Hamaundu emphasized the importance of effective communication in ensuring compliance: “We need to work together to ensure that everyone is aware of the regulations put in place to prevent the spread of cholera. Local authorities must communicate effectively with all stakeholders, and we urge all community members to comply with the regulations put in place for their own safety and the safety of their community.”
Cholera is a waterborne disease that causes severe diarrhoea and dehydration, leading to potentially fatal complications. It spreads through contaminated water and food and is often associated with poor sanitation and hygiene practices. The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development’s move to ban street food sales is part of a broader effort to address the underlying causes of cholera outbreaks, including inadequate sanitation and hygiene practices.
The public is encouraged to cooperate with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development and local authorities to ensure that preventive measures are implemented and adhered to. By working together, we can prevent the spread of cholera and ensure that our communities remain safe and healthy. As Mr Hamaundu stated, “We need every member of our communities to take responsibility for their own health and the health of their community. By working together and following the regulations put in place, we can prevent the spread of cholera and ensure that our communities remain healthy and prosperous.”
Th beautiful bridge from Kamwala to the town Centre is full of farces due to diarre. Because people have no sanitary where they can relief themselves after eating those rotten foods being sold all over Lusaka. But full of bacterias.
Ban street vending altogether as it is illegal according to the law.